2 Samuel 1:14

So David asked him, "Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD's anointed?"

Study Bible

So David asked him
David, the anointed king of Israel, is speaking to the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul. This interaction occurs after the death of Saul, Israel's first king, and Jonathan, his son, in battle against the Philistines. David's question reflects his deep respect for God's chosen leaders, despite Saul's previous attempts to kill him. This moment highlights David's character and his adherence to God's authority, setting a precedent for leadership that values divine appointment over personal ambition.

“Why were you not afraid
David's question implies a moral and spiritual expectation that reverence for God's anointed should instill fear or respect. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were often seen as divinely appointed, and to harm them was to challenge divine authority. This reflects a broader biblical principle seen in passages like Romans 13:1-2, which emphasizes submission to governing authorities as instituted by God.

to lift your hand
The phrase "lift your hand" is a Hebrew idiom for taking action, particularly violent action. It suggests a deliberate and conscious decision to harm. In biblical narratives, the hand often symbolizes power and action, as seen in Exodus 15:6, where God's hand is described as powerful and victorious. Here, it underscores the gravity of the Amalekite's claim to have killed Saul.

to destroy the LORD’s anointed?”
The term "the LORD’s anointed" refers to Saul, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel as king over Israel (1 Samuel 10:1). Anointing with oil was a sacred act signifying God's choice and empowerment for leadership. This concept of anointing is a type of Christ, the Messiah, which means "Anointed One." David's respect for Saul, despite Saul's failings, foreshadows the ultimate respect and reverence due to Jesus Christ, God's anointed Savior. David's refusal to harm Saul, even when given the opportunity, is a testament to his understanding of God's sovereignty and the sanctity of God's chosen leaders.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart after God and his complex life of triumphs and failures. In this passage, he is responding to the news of King Saul's death.

2. The Amalekite
A young man who claimed to have killed Saul, expecting a reward from David. His actions and words are central to the unfolding of this account.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by God but later rejected due to disobedience. His death marks a significant transition in Israel's history.

4. The LORD’s Anointed
A term used to describe someone chosen by God for a specific purpose, in this case, King Saul. It underscores the sacredness of God's chosen leaders.

5. Mount Gilboa
The location where Saul and his sons died in battle against the Philistines, setting the stage for the events in this chapter.

Teaching Points

Respect for God’s Anointed
David’s reaction highlights the importance of respecting those whom God has placed in positions of authority, even when they are flawed.

The Fear of the Lord
The Amalekite’s lack of fear in killing Saul contrasts with David’s reverence for God’s anointed, teaching us about the importance of fearing God in our actions.

Integrity in Leadership
David’s consistent respect for Saul, despite Saul’s pursuit of him, demonstrates integrity and faithfulness to God’s principles.

God’s Sovereignty in Leadership
Recognizing that God appoints leaders, and our role is to respect and pray for them, trusting in God’s ultimate plan.

Consequences of Disobedience
The Amalekite’s fate serves as a warning about the consequences of taking matters into our own hands and acting against God’s will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David’s response to the Amalekite reflect his understanding of God’s authority and anointing?

2. In what ways can we show respect for those in authority over us, even when we disagree with them?

3. How does the concept of "the LORD’s anointed" apply to our lives today, particularly in the context of church leadership?

4. What can we learn from David’s example about handling conflicts with those who oppose us?

5. How do the principles in 2 Samuel 1:14 challenge us to examine our own actions and attitudes towards God’s appointed leaders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 24:6
David previously spared Saul's life, demonstrating his respect for the LORD's anointed, which provides context for his reaction in 2 Samuel 1:14.

1 Chronicles 16:22
This verse reiterates the principle of not harming the LORD's anointed, emphasizing the sacredness of God's chosen leaders.

Romans 13:1
This New Testament passage speaks to respecting authorities, as they are established by God, echoing the respect David shows for Saul.